Second Coming/Parable of Ten Virgins
Lesson 35
1-24-10
Read Matthew 23:1 – 5 and 23:24 – 26
Did you hear that? Practice what you preach. It’s right there in the Bible! Jesus scolded the Pharisees who were trying to appear righteous and Godly, but not really doing God’s work. Have you ever searched the dishwasher for a special cup? Maybe the really cool one you got at the circus with the neat sparkles and built-in straw…the one with your name written on the side with fancy print! You finally found it in the back of the top rack only to discover as you tipped the drink up to your mouth that the inside of the cup was caked with day-old chocolate milk??? YUCK!! That cup is what Jesus compares us to if we are trying to look right, but not doing right. He is more concerned with the condition and motives of our heart than how wonderful we appear to other people.
When you do something for someone else, think about why. Is it to get something in return or “look good” to others? Or is it just because it’s the right thing to do? Think about it.
Look for chances this week to do something for someone else secretly. Maybe you could do a chore for your brother or sister without getting any “credit” for it.
Send someone a card that needs encouragement
Provide a meal for someone who can’t cook for themselves or buy food
Read Matthew 25:1 – 13
Have you ever been unprepared for something? (skipped doing your homework; didn’t memorize that memory verse) How did you feel showing up unprepared? It was probably not a good feeling. How do you feel when you are prepared? (confident, proud, secure) Talk about these times with your family.
There is a great day coming! At least it will be great for those who are prepared. The Bible tells us what to do to be prepared. We don’t know the day or time, but we know how to be ready. If we are ready, we can face each day with confidence and assurance!
